Marinated Salmon

I can provide you with a recipe for marinated salmon that is simple to prepare and delicious. Here’s how to do it.

Ingredients

• 500 g fresh salmon fillet, skinless
• 200 g coarse salt
• 200 g brown sugar
• Grated zest of 1 lemon
• 1 bunch fresh dill (or, if you prefer, wild fennel)
• 2 tablespoons peppercorns, crushed
• 2 tablespoons vodka (optional, to intensify the flavors)

Preparation

1. In a bowl, mix together the coarse salt and brown sugar.
2. Add the grated lemon zest, the crushed peppercorns and the chopped dill.
3. Line a baking dish with some plastic wrap, leaving it hanging over the edges so you can then wrap the salmon.
4. Sprinkle half of the salt and sugar mixture on the plastic wrap in the baking dish.
5. Place the salmon fillet on top and pour the rest of the mixture over it, making sure to cover the fish completely.
6. If you decide to use the vodka, spray it now over the salmon.
7. Wrap the salmon with the excess plastic wrap, then put another layer of plastic wrap on top to seal well.
8. Place a weight on top of the salmon (another baking dish with some cans on top will do) to press it lightly.
9. Place the salmon in the refrigerator and let it marinate for at least 24 hours, up to 48 hours if you prefer a more intense flavor.
10. After the marinating time, remove the salmon from the baking dish, rinse it under cold water to remove excess salt and sugar and pat it dry with paper towels.
11. Slice the salmon into thin slices and arrange them on a serving plate.

Marinated salmon is excellent enjoyed on its own, with a slice of dark bread, or used in other preparations such as salads or as a base for more elaborate dishes.

Trivia

This preparation is similar to a Scandinavian dish called “gravlax” which is traditionally consumed during festive periods. Over time it has become a popular appetizer all over the world, and vodka is a trick used in some variations to enhance the flavor of the fish.